Today’s McLaren version starts with Jenson Button in a deserted factory car park late at night saying “Lewis? Is that you?” when he sees a car headlights but it is Fernando Alonso who steps out from behind the glare.

In a less than successful first test last year the new Honda engine had much the same problems as many of the teams adjusting to the challenges of the new hybrid V6 era – only they were a year behind.

Now the former champions are hoping they will be able to put that behind them and make a flying start at the first round in Melbourne in March.